Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut, “Lying on a Funeral” (adapted from Lidia Yuknavitch’s 2011 memoir), is a powerful exploration of pain, identity, and the struggles of writing. The film balances harsh realities with tender moments, counterposing Super-8 memories and epiphanies with the darker consequences of abuse.
Stewart plays Lidia, a young woman who survived childhood abuse at the hands of her father, an architect who was furious and clenched. Her mother’s denial and sister’s sacrifices only added to the trauma. To cope, Lidia turned to swimming, which became both a source of freedom and a means of escape.
As she navigates adulthood, Lidia struggles with her identity, fueled by her obsession with abuse and her disdain for her boyfriend’s gentleness. Her artistic journey is marked by a toxic crisis of daddy issues, echoing the warning signs of her father’s behavior.
The film explores themes of creativity, trauma, and personal growth, drawing inspiration from literary icons like Ken Kesey and Kathy Acker. Stewart’s guidance shines through in strong, intelligent performances, making this debut a heartfelt and earnest work that tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity and authenticity.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/may/16/the-chronology-of-water-review-kristen-stewart-makes-a-traumatic-splash-with-directorial-debut